Date Window
A Date Window is a common feature on watches that displays the current date through a small opening in the watch face. It's like a tiny window cut into the dial that shows the date number. This feature is considered standard in modern watchmaking, but creating and installing it requires specific skills. Watchmakers need to know how to work with the date mechanism (called a 'date complication' in the industry) and ensure it's properly aligned within the window. Some watches might have variations like 'big date windows' or windows showing both date and day.
Examples in Resumes
Specialized in installing and aligning Date Window mechanisms in luxury timepieces
Performed maintenance and repairs on watches with Date Window and day-date complications
Mastered the assembly of Date Window displays across various watch models
Typical job title: "Watchmakers"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Watchmakers
Professional Organizations
Online Forums
Job Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a challenging date window alignment issue in a high-end timepiece?
Expected Answer: A senior watchmaker should explain the process of diagnosing alignment issues, proper tools and techniques for adjustment, and quality control measures to ensure perfect date changing at midnight.
Q: What's your approach to training junior watchmakers on date window installations?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate teaching methodology, common pitfalls to avoid, and how to develop proper techniques in others while maintaining quality standards.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the common problems you might encounter with date window mechanisms?
Expected Answer: Should be able to discuss issues like date not changing properly, alignment problems, and damaged date wheels, along with their solutions.
Q: How do you ensure proper date window alignment during assembly?
Expected Answer: Should explain the step-by-step process of checking and adjusting date window alignment, including tools used and quality checks.
Junior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain the basic components of a date window mechanism?
Expected Answer: Should be able to identify the date wheel, date jumper, and basic date changing mechanism, showing understanding of how they work together.
Q: What basic tools do you use when working with date windows?
Expected Answer: Should list essential tools for date window work and demonstrate knowledge of their proper use and handling.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic date window component identification
- Simple date mechanism maintenance
- Basic tool handling and safety
- Understanding of date changing systems
Mid (2-5 years)
- Date window alignment and adjustment
- Troubleshooting common date issues
- Date mechanism replacement
- Quality control procedures
Senior (5+ years)
- Complex date mechanism repairs
- Training and supervision
- Advanced problem solving
- High-end watch restoration
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to identify basic date window components
- Lack of proper tool handling skills
- No experience with quality control procedures
- Poor attention to detail in alignment work
